Stepmom2, from Texas (submitted Sept '09)

Name: STEPMOM2

Home: Texas

My husband and I have been married 5 years (together for 7)!! He had two children ages 4 and 6 when we began dating. We have a GREAT marriage and I have an awesome relationship with my 2 step children. I thank God everyday that he has blessed me in so many ways!

It has not been the smoothest road.....we have had MANY bumps. I treat both of them as if they were my own. I am very involved in each of their lives. I can' imagine life without them.

I truly believe that God put me in their lives and them in mine for a specific reason. I have the most amazing Step Dad and I want to be that person to them.

While reading all of the other posting I have determined that we have life pretty good. There are so many stories that are much worse than ours. I am thankful that God has blessed me with such a wonderful "Step Family"

Everyone should remember that God has a plan for each and everyone of you....moms, dads, stepmom, stepdads and ALL the children involved. No matter how hard it gets just remember that He never gives us more than we can handle.

Step families are an amazing adventure and can put people in your lives that very special and change your life forever.

As a step parent or a parent that brought in a stepparent to the family dynamic remember that you chose this path the children DID NOT. There is always an adjustment period and the adults need to have patience and form the much needed bonds with everyone involved no matter how hard or simple. My step kids have really benefitted from seeing a Christian couselor b/c they are able to express emotions to a person that will not get their feelings hurt by what they have to say.

All I can say is that I love my husband and my 2 wonderful step children. This is one of my favorite versus:

"Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and your plans will succeed."

Proverbs 16:3

I think this is so true especially with a blended family. Good luck and God Speed!